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WPTF Afternoon News

WPTF Afternoon News

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Jeff McCausland CBS News Military Analyst

The White House has expressed support for Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth following media reports that he shared sensitive military details in another Signal messaging chat that included his wife and brother. President Donald Trump on Monday called it “fake news” and pointed to what he called disgruntled workers. The administration's posture is meant to hold the line against Democratic demands for Hegseth’s firing at a time when the Pentagon is engulfed in turmoil, including the departures of several senior aides. The White House has framed the revelation as the outgrowth of a power struggle between Hegseth and the career workforce. CBS News Military Analyst Jeff McCausland talked with Jeff Hamlin about Hegseth’s standing at the White House

Apr 22, 20254 min

Mallory Peterson Recreation Program Supervisor

Chatham County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its brand-new Arts Center, set for Saturday, May 17. The celebration will take place at the new Arts Center located at 964 East Street in Pittsboro, NC. Guests are invited to enjoy a ribbon cutting ceremony, hands-on arts and crafts, live demonstrations, food, and fun for the entire family. Visitors can also tour the new studio space and get a first look at upcoming arts classes designed for all ages and experience levels. Mallory Peterson, Recreation Program Supervisor, joined Bruce Ferrell to discuss the grand opening.

Apr 22, 20255 min

Christine Rogers Communications Manager for The Salvation Army Raleigh Area Command

The Salvation Army of Wake County is partnering with Feed the Children and Concord Hospitality to provide food and other supplies to 400 families in need in the community. Each family will receive a 25-lb box of food and a 15-lb box of hygiene essentials plus additional products. It’s going to happen this Friday. The program is sponsored by Concord Hospitality as part of its annual Share Day. Christine Rogers, with the Salvation Army Raleigh Area Command, joined Bruce Ferrell to discuss the event.

Apr 22, 20255 min

Peter Casarella: Duke University Theology Professor on the impact of Pope Francis

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a transformative figure in the Catholic Church, has died at age 88. Known for his humility and deep concern for the poor, Francis brought a new tone to the Vatican—one that resonated with many but stirred controversy among conservatives. His outspoken views on issues like capitalism, climate change, and social justice marked a significant departure from more traditional papal approaches.The Vatican confirmed that his death was caused by a stroke that led to a coma and subsequent heart failure. This followed a prolonged 38-day hospitalization due to a respiratory crisis—the longest of his 12-year papacy.Peter Casarella, a Theology Professor at Duke University, joined Gayle Hurd to reflect on Pope Francis’ bold leadership, noting that his willingness to challenge norms and take strong stances often sparked debate within the Church but also helped redefine the role of the papacy in a modern world.

Apr 21, 20256 min

Rick Lee: Furniture designer on Thayer Coggin's New Piece at the 2025 High Point Furniture Market

Thayer Coggin is preparing for liftoff at the Spring 2025 High Point Furniture Market with the debut of its latest eye-catching piece: the UFO Ottoman, designed by Rick Lee. Drawing inspiration from mid-century comic books and sci-fi classics like The Day the Earth Stood Still and Flying Saucer, the ottoman delivers a whimsical yet sophisticated statement piece.The UFO Ottoman comes in two sizes: a smaller, taller version ideal as a footrest or stool, and a larger model that can double as extra seating or even a stylish table surface. With its retro-futuristic design and versatile functionality, the piece is a nod to vintage imagination reimagined for today’s interiors. Designer Rick Lee joined Jeff Hamlin to share the creative vision behind this intergalactic addition to Thayer Coggin’s collection.

Apr 21, 20256 min

Dr. Elizabeth O’Donnell Gandolfo of the Wake Forest University School of Divinity on Pope Francis

Pope Francis broke centuries of tradition from the moment he stepped onto the world stage. As the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit pontiff, and the first to take the name Francis—after St. Francis of Assisi—he symbolized a shift toward humility, service, and care for the marginalized.Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrant parents, he was the eldest of five children. He was ordained as a Jesuit priest in 1969 and later led the order in Argentina during the country’s violent military dictatorship in the 1970s—an era that tested his leadership and moral conviction. After serving as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, he was elevated to cardinal in 2001 by Pope John Paul II.Throughout his papacy, Francis made bold stances on issues like climate change, economic inequality, immigration, and LGBTQ+ inclusion—often putting him at odds with conservative voices within the Church. Dr. Elizabeth O’Donnell Gandolfo from the Wake Forest University School of Divinity joined Jeff Hamlin to explore how Pope Francis' leadership challenged tradition and inspired reform-minded Catholics across the globe.

Apr 21, 20256 min

PBS North Carolina CEO David Crabtree discusses the life of Pope Francis

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff and a transformative figure in the modern Catholic Church, has died at age 88. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, he was known for his humility, compassion for the poor, and outspoken views on issues like capitalism and climate change. From the moment of his election, Francis signaled a new direction for the papacy — one focused on inclusivity and justice, especially for refugees and the marginalized.Yet his progressive stance drew criticism from conservative factions within the Church, who bristled at his outreach to LGBTQ+ Catholics and his restrictions on traditionalist practices. David Crabtree, longtime television news anchor in the Triangle who covered the early days of Francis’ papacy, joined Jeff Hamlin to reflect on the Pope’s complex legacy and enduring global impact.

Apr 21, 20257 min

Angela Thorpe Mason Executive Director of the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice

A historic center in Durham is losing thousands in federal funds as the Trump Administration reshapes federal spending. The Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice is losing $330,000 in grant money awarded to the center. The center honors the life and legacy of longtime Durham resident, human rights and LGBTQ+ activist Reverend Doctor Pauli Murray. The Trump Administration says the center does not serve the interests of the United States. Angela Thorpe Mason, Executive Director of the Pauli Murray Center for History and Social Justice, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss her reaction.

Apr 18, 20256 min

Mary Lynn Tedesco Immigration lawyer

Afghan refugees in the United States, fleeing religious persecution, are worried they'll have to return to a country where their lives could be in danger. Immigrants from Afghanistan have Temporary Protected Status, which allows citizens of certain countries legal status to be in the United States if it is too dangerous for them to return home. Mary Lynn Tedesco is an immigration attorney based out of Charlotte who has already represented one person who is at risk of being deported. She joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest.

Apr 17, 20257 min

Dr. Asiya Gusa Assistant Professor Moecular Genetics at Duke University

Researchers from the Duke University School of Medicine, Pratt School of Engineering and Duke Department of Biology are studying post-disaster fungal growth in Black Mountain, North Carolina, one of the areas hardest hit by Hurricane Helene. The newly formed team of Duke researchers called Climate and Fungi is working to understand how these fungal communities develop and what they mean for human health in a warming world. Dr. Asiya Gusa is one of the professors who have journeyed to western North Carolina for the study. Dr. Gusa joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss their findings.

Apr 17, 20257 min

Holden Bierman CEO of Coastal Cool

A local high school student is making a name for himself in business. He’s the CEO of a swimwear company with a mission to help clean up the ocean. Forget your typical after-school job; 17-year-old Holden Bierman is running his own business. The Fuquay-Varina High School junior is the founder and CEO of Coastal Cool an online swimwear company focused on sustainability. He started the business back in 2020, when schools shut down for the pandemic. Bierman discussed his business with Jeff Hamlin.

Apr 17, 20255 min

Richard Warr: Professor of Finance at N.C. State on Volatile Activity in the Economy

Recent tariff announcements and policy shifts have sent the stock market on a rollercoaster, leaving investors and everyday observers wondering what’s coming next. While the ups and downs may seem chaotic, Richard Warr, associate dean for faculty research and professor of finance at N.C. State’s Poole College of Management, says large market swings are not unusual — and in some cases, even expected.He joined Jeff Hamlin to break down what’s behind the volatility and whether any of it can truly be predicted.

Apr 16, 20256 min

Scott DuPree of the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance on Athletic Events Aiding the Economy

It’s been a busy (and profitable) spring for sports in Raleigh. From the NCAA Tournament drawing fans to watch Duke and UConn at the Lenovo Center, to the N.C. State women’s team hosting games at Reynolds Coliseum, the city has been buzzing with athletic action. And with the Carolina Hurricanes heading into their seventh straight Stanley Cup Playoffs appearance, the momentum shows no signs of slowing.Scott Dupree with the Greater Raleigh Sports Alliance joined Jeff Hamlin to break down how these major events are boosting the local economy.

Apr 16, 20255 min

Jamezetta Bedford: Chairwoman of the Orange County Commissioners on Potential New Additions to the UNC Hospital

Orange County officials are taking a major step forward in expanding mental health resources in the region. A 5-acre site near the UNC Hospitals campus in Hillsborough has been identified for a proposed behavioral health facility that would serve residents of all ages, starting as young as four. In addition to 24-hour urgent care, the center would include a healing garden, courtyard, and a resource hub focused on housing support and harm reduction.Jamezetta Bedford, Chairwoman of the Orange County Commissioners, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the vision behind the project and what it could mean for the community.

Apr 16, 20254 min

Event organizer Pooja Mehta discusses the origins of the Raj Mehta Day of Good

April 15 may be known as Tax Day, but for many in the Triangle and beyond-it has also become a day dedicated to kindness, connection and community. The Raj Mehta Day of Good is held annually on April 15 in memory of Raj Mehta, organized by his sister, Pooja Mehta, to honor what would have been his birthday. Raj Mehta died by suicide in March 2020. He was an engineering student at Duke University who, according to loved ones, left a lasting impact on the people around him. In the years since his passing, Pooja Mehta has led the effort to transform the day into one of positivity and action. She joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the Raj Mehta Day of Good.

Apr 15, 20255 min

Shawn Gage President of the Triangle Swimming Association

One of the largest recreational swim leagues in North Carolina and the country is making some major changes when it comes to transgender athletes being able to swim and compete in the gender they identify with. The head of the Triangle Swimming Association admits this probably only impacts five-to-ten transgender swimmers out of around 13,000 representing almost 90 teams around the Triangle. But it's become a big topic. TSA president Shawn Gage says the new policy passed by a two-thirds margin. LGBT consultant Jack Turnwald says the new protocols will leave families deciding if they can ever feel truly included. Shawn Gage joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the new policy.

Apr 15, 20255 min

Kiersten Hackman Spokesperson for the Sunrise Movement

Dozens of students and Chapel Hill residents marched Monday afternoon, calling on the University of North Carolina to stop burning coal at its campus cogeneration plant, citing public health risks, environmental injustice and broken climate promises. Led by the Sunrise Movement at UNC-Chapel Hill, the protest started at Granville Towers and ended outside the Cameron Avenue Cogeneration Facility, a coal- and gas-burning power plant that provides steam and electricity to the campus and UNC Hospitals. Kiersten Hackman, a spokesperson for the Sunrise Movement, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the demonstration.

Apr 15, 20257 min

Bryan Anderson Independent Journalist

The race for a seat on the North Carolina Supreme Court — the last undecided contest in the nation from the 2024 election — is far from over. The court ruled Friday that of the 65,000 ballots Judge Jefferson Griffin initially contested, the court ruled that approximately 60,000 ballots with “incomplete registration” cannot be discarded. However, the justices ordered that around 260 ballots cast by individuals classified as “never residents” should be removed immediately. Bryan Anderson, an independent journalist who has covered the race extensively on “Anderson Alerts” on Substack, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the latest on the ongoing race.

Apr 15, 20259 min

Emily Herring: N.C. Department of Health and Human Services Public Health Veterinarian

With spring in full swing and summer right around the corner, public health officials are reminding North Carolinians to be cautious about ticks and mosquitoes. In 2024 alone, the state has already reported more than 900 cases of illnesses tied to these pesky biters. To help curb the spread, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is relaunching its “Fight the Bite” campaign to raise awareness and promote prevention.Emily Herring, Public Health Veterinarian with the NCDHHS, joined Jeff Hamlin to talk about the campaign and how residents can protect themselves this season.

Apr 14, 20255 min

Dustin Long: NASCAR correspondent for NBC Sports

After more than a decade of silence, the engines will once again roar at Rockingham Speedway. For the first time since 2013, NASCAR racing is returning to Richmond County as the Xfinity Series and Craftsman Truck Series roll into town on Easter weekend. The revival comes after years of effort from local leaders and a major boost in state funding — a $9 million allocation approved in 2021 as part of North Carolina’s budget.Dustin Long, NASCAR correspondent for NBC Sports, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss what this long-awaited comeback means for Rockingham, local fans, and the broader racing community.

Apr 14, 20258 min

Brian Batchelor: Co-organizer of NC Sports Con

The sports community in Wendell is gearing up for an exciting new chapter. NC Sports Con, the first event of its kind in North Carolina, is set to make its debut — and it promises to be a game changer. Presented by WakeMed, the convention aims to bring together fans, athletes, collectors, teams, and industry pros for a weekend dedicated to all things sports.Brian Batchelor, the co-organizer of NC Sports Con, joined Jeff Hamlin to talk about what attendees can expect from the event and how it came together.

Apr 14, 20255 min

Morrisville Town Councilman Steve Rao

Morrisville Town Councilman Steve Rao joined Anthony DeHart on the WPTF Afternoon News to give us an update on everything happening in Morrisville

Apr 11, 20257 min

Pastor Jay Augustine

Pastor Jay Augustine joined Anthony DeHart on the WPTF Afternoon News to talk about the upcoming Community Prayer Summit taking place at St. Joseph AME Church

Apr 11, 20257 min

Boyuan Chen Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Duke University

When personal computers were first invented, only a small group of people who understood programming languages could use them. Today, anyone can look up the local weather, play their favorite song or even generate code with just few keystrokes. This shift has fundamentally changed how humans interact with technology, making powerful computational tools accessible to everyone. Now, advancements in artificial intelligence are extending this ease of interaction to the world of robotics through a platform called Text2Robot. Boyuan Chen, Assistant Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Duke University, joined Jon Champion to discuss Text2Robot.

Apr 10, 20255 min

Scott Dyreng Duke University Fuqua School of Business

U.S. stocks are surrendering a chunk of their historic gains from the day before as President Donald Trump’s trade war continues to confuse and threaten the economy, even if its temperature has cooled a bit. The S&P 500 fell 3.6% Thursday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dropped 1,135 points, and the Nasdaq composite sank 4.3%. Losses for stocks accelerated after the White House clarified that Chinese imports will be tariffed at 145%, not the 125% rate that Trump had earlier written about. Not even a better-than-expected report on inflation in the United States could help stocks. Scott Dyreng, from the Duke University School of Business, joined Jon Champion to discuss the about-face by President Trump

Apr 10, 20256 min

Tom Campbell Former host of N.C. Spin

Former Congressman Wiley Nickel has wasted no time getting back into the political realm. Nickel was first elected to the House in 2022 but chose not to run for reelection. Former Governor Roy Cooper has been mentioned by many as a possible candidate in the 2026 Senate race. Nickel will challenge North Carolina Senior Senator Thom Tillis, who is up for re-election next year. The timing of Nickel’s announcement raises several questions about what the makeup of the race will be. Tom Campbell, the longtime host of political talk show N.C. Spin and a venerable voice on WPTF, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss Nickel’s entry into the race.

Apr 10, 20255 min

Adolfo Alvarez UNC-Chapel Hill student body president

UNC student leaders are still working to learn more about the next steps after six international students had their visas revoked by the Trump administration. The names of those international students are still being protected for privacy reasons, but student leaders say they're learning more about how the university learned about the visa situation, and now they're focused on what happens next. Student Body President Adolfo Alvarez said that after meeting with university leaders, the university wasn't notified right away. Alvarez joined Jon Champion to discuss what he’s heard

Apr 10, 20255 min

Linda Kenyon CBS News correspondent

U.S. stocks soared to one of their best days in history on a euphoric Wall Street after President Donald Trump said he would back off on most of his tariffs temporarily. The S&P 500 soared 9.5% Wednesday, though it's still below where it was when Trump announced his sweeping set of tariffs last week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average flew nearly 3,000 points higher, and the Nasdaq composite jumped 12.2%. Trump, though, did raise tariffs further on China, which keeps the possibility of further swings ahead for markets. Linda Kenyon, a correspondent of CBS News, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the situation.

Apr 9, 20255 min

Justin Page Co-owner of Page Farms in Raleigh

Less than two weeks away from the start of strawberry harvest season, Raleigh farmers are doing everything they can to protect their bottom line from a spring freeze. At Page Farms, located at 6100 Mount Herman Road, green berries in the strawberry fields are begging to turn red. Co-owner Justin Page was preparing for the overnight cold snap late Tuesday by installing an overhead frost irrigation system to prevent potential frost from damaging blooms, which are crucial for future berry production. Page joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the early Wednesday freeze.

Apr 9, 20255 min

Erica Wilson Medical Director for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services

The 2024-2025 flu season has been active and deadly in North Carolina. On Wednesday, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) said its latest data showed more than 500 flu-related deaths statewide. The agency said this is the highest number of flu deaths reported since 2009 and since it started collecting data. Last year, 319 deaths were recorded. Erica Wilson, Medical Director for the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the increase in fatalities.

Apr 9, 20254 min

Tami Fitzgerald Executive Director of the NC Values Coalition

On Tuesday, HB 805, a bill aimed at ending exploitations in the pornography industry, was filed in the NC house. The "Prevent Sexual Exploitation of Women and Minors Act” requires that pornography websites verify that people on their websites are at least 18 years old and have consented, in writing, to be there. The bill makes a way for those who have been exploited by pornography websites to have content removed and provides significant financial penalties for violations. Tami Fitzgerald, Executive Director of the NC Values Coalition, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss HB 805.

Apr 9, 20256 min

Jillian Riley Planned Parenthood South Atlantic spokesperson

Three state House Republicans are looking to enact further restrictions on abortion in a move that would lead to a near-total ban of the procedure in North Carolina. House Bill 804, titled Human Life Protection Act of 2025, would ban abortion outside of a spontaneous abortion, to remove an ectopic pregnancy, or save or preserve the health of an unborn child or mother. Jillian Riley, a spokesperson for Planned Parenthood South Atlantic, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss HB804.

Apr 9, 20256 min

William Lassiter Deputy Secretary of Public Safety

On Monday, Governor Josh Stein announced his Advisory Council on Student Safety and Well-Being, co-chaired by Senate Democratic Leader Sydney Batch, Deputy Secretary William "Billy" Lassiter of the Department of Public Safety, and 2024 North Carolina Teacher of the Year Heather Smith. Governor Stein's advisory council will work across state agencies and with both state and local leaders to propose and implement policies and solutions that will improve student safety and wellbeing. It will advance recommendations, provide guidance to state agencies, work with local communities, and share best practices. Lassiter joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the council.

Apr 8, 20255 min

Zack Medford Owner of Tapyard Bar

Local businesses, like bars, are bracing for the impact that the tariffs imposed by the Trump Administration could have on them. Zack Medford, a brewer based in Raleigh, says the aluminum that's in the cans of beers they serve comes from Canada. He says the tariffs couldn't come at a worse time. Medford is the owner of Tapyard Bar. He expects 25% foreign aluminum tariffs to impact prices, as well. Medford joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how it will impact his establishment.

Apr 8, 20256 min

Rabbi Mendy Wilschanski Chabad of Raleigh

The holiday of Passover begins at sundown on Saturday. Passover celebrates the Exodus of the Jewish people from slavery in Ancient Egypt some 3,300 years ago. The holiday of freedom is marked by the Jewish people removing learned items, such as bread, from their homes and eating matzah. There is a highly-ritualistic dinner on the first two nights of Passover called the Seder when the story of Exodus is recounted. Rabbi Mendy Wilschanski of the Chabad of Raleigh joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss what their celebration of Passover will include this year.

Apr 8, 20255 min

Nancy Daly: Wake County Water Resources Program Manager

Wake County is asking for the community’s help in developing a long-term strategy for managing one of its most vital resources — water. From April 2 through May 5, residents, businesses, farmers, and organizations are invited to participate in a survey that will shape the County’s One Water Plan. The goal is to better understand how people use water, what concerns they have, and what strategies might work best going forward.Nancy Daly, Wake County’s Water Resources Program Manager, joined Jeff Hamlin to talk about the survey and how the county plans to use the information gathered.

Apr 7, 20254 min

Mike Walden: N.C. State Economics Professor Emeritus on Recent Tariff Activity

U.S. markets took a hit Monday after President Donald Trump reaffirmed his commitment to imposing tariffs — a move that rattled investors and stoked fears of a global economic slowdown. The S&P 500 dropped 1.7%, the Nasdaq fell 1.4%, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average sank 860 points, at one point plunging as much as 1,700 before briefly rebounding on rumors of a potential pause in tariffs.As uncertainty continues to shake the markets, N.C. State Economics Professor Emeritus Mike Walden joined Jeff Hamlin to break down what’s behind the volatility and what it could mean going forward.

Apr 7, 20255 min

Bob Orr: Former North Carolina Supreme Court Associate Justice on NC Election Recounts

A major decision from the North Carolina Court of Appeals could upend the results of the 2024 Supreme Court race. In a 2-1 ruling, judges ordered a recount and verification process for nearly 60,000 ballots — a move that could disqualify votes from those who fail to verify their identity within 15 days. The outcome could swing the razor-thin race in favor of Republican Jefferson Griffin, who trails Democrat Allison Riggs by fewer than 800 votes.With an appeal expected, the case now adds new layers of uncertainty to one of the state’s most closely watched elections. Former North Carolina Supreme Court Associate Justice Bob Orr joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the implications of the ruling.

Apr 7, 20255 min

Chris Cooper Western Carolina University Political Science Professor

Elon Musk and President Donald Trump have recently suggested that the billionaire entrepreneur's time in the administration might be running out. Musk says he could be done with his work at the Department of Government Efficiency in the near future. Trump has told reporters that Musk will go back to running his companies and that DOGE “will end” at some point. All of that talk came before Musk faced a setback on Tuesday in Wisconsin, where voters rejected his choice for a closely contested state Supreme Court candidate. Chris Cooper, Western Carolina Political Science Professor, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the political implications of Musk’s departure.

Apr 3, 20257 min

Gerald Cohen Chief Economist at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School

President Donald Trump has announced far-reaching new tariffs on nearly all U.S. trading partners — including a 34% tax on imports from China and 20% on the European Union, among others. Trump placed the elevated tariff rates on dozens of nations that run meaningful trade surpluses with the United States, while imposing a 10% baseline tax on imports from all countries. The president used aggressive rhetoric to describe a global trade system that the United States helped to build after World War II, saying “our country has been looted, pillaged, raped and plundered” by other nations. Gerald Cohen, Chief Economist at the UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the tariffs.

Apr 3, 20255 min

Erin Horne Associate Dean for Professional Education at N.C. State

New numbers from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction provide insight into teacher turnover in the state. It shows almost 1 in 10 teachers left their job between March 2023 and March 2024. NCDPI presented its State of the Teaching Profession report, which looks at attrition rates, at Wednesday’s State Board of Education meeting. The report shows a teacher turnover rate of 9.9% for 2023-24, for a total of 8,886 teachers leaving. Erin Horne, Associate Dean for Professional Education at N.C. State University’s College of Education, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the report

Apr 3, 20256 min

Baden Jaxen Owner of Pup Park Shuttle

A former North Carolina men’s basketball player is making sure local dogs are riding in comfort. Baden Jaxen needed only a few months to get Pup Park Shuttle off the ground. Jaxen was scrolling through social media in October when he saw a video from Canada showing a shuttle-based dog-sitting service where pets were picked up on a bus. In less than two months, Jaxen got the school bus in top shape, decorating it with turf grass and a sky on the ceiling. Baden joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how he started Pup Park Shuttle and how it gained traction so quickly.

Apr 3, 20257 min

Tania Moore: Moved By Her Power

Tania Moore, broker/owner of regional real estate company ERA Live Moore, received the “Moved By Her Power” award for her leadership excellence and dedication to her community.The award was presented to Tania by What Moves Her®, the advocacy organization designed to empower women in the real estate industry by enhancing their leadership skills and achieve their professional development goals. She talked with Anthony DeHart about this honor and the world of real estate.

Apr 3, 20257 min

Emily Foster Co-Director of the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival

This weekend, thousands of people will flock to downtown Durham for the 27th annual Full Frame Documentary Film Festival. This year, the documentaries occupying those coveted evening slots are Prime Minister on opening night and SALLY on closing night—two very different films, both about the complicated lives of brilliant women. Prime Minister, from directors Lindsay Utz and Michelle Walshe, picks up a thematic thread from last year’s opening film—Girls State, a rousing documentary following a Missouri political leadership camp for girls—with a look back at the five-year tenure of progressive politician Jacinda Ardern. Emily Foster, the co-Director of the Full Frame Documentary Film Festival, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss this year’s event.

Apr 2, 20256 min

Scott Dyreng Duke University professor

President Trump is set to unveil his reciprocal tariffs against other countries. However, some economists have questioned the move, expressing concern it would lead to price increases for consumers. Businesses across the Triangle are doing what they can to mitigate the effects. Alex White is the General Manager of Cooper's Furniture in Cary, which has been around for 96 years. White says they stocked up on supplies from their international partners and are looking into increasing their worth with domestic suppliers. President Trump has acknowledged there will be "potential short-term disruptions" because of the tariffs. Scott Dyreng, a Duke University professor, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the tariffs.

Apr 2, 20255 min

Keijuane Hester Owner of Favor Desserts

In a few days, tens of thousands of people from all over will pack Dix Park in Raleigh for the fifth and final Dreamville Festival. More than 75 vendors will set up shop at the event. The majority of them are from North Carolina. Favor Desserts of Durham is one of many businesses from the central region that will call Dix Park home this weekend. Keijuane Hester is the owner of Favor Desserts in Durham. Preparing for the final Dreamville Festival has made Hester and his staff very busy. Hester joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss how he’s prepared for Dreamville.

Apr 2, 20256 min

Dr. John Wiener Duke University Chief of Pediatric Urology

Doctors call it a triumph of American medicine: People are living into adulthood with conditions that were once considered impossible to recover from, but some adults are having a hard time finding the care they need. A new clinic at Duke University Hospital aims to change that. Many spina bifida patients are also treated in children’s hospitals, which leaves them few options as adults. Dr. John Wiener. Duke’s Chief of Pediatric Urology, is an expert in treating people with spina bifida. Wiener joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the new Duke University Spina Bifida clinic

Apr 2, 20256 min

Steve Wiseman Durham Herald-Sun Sportswriter

The Duke men’s basketball team is preparing for the Final Four. It’s the 18th trip to basketball’s biggest stage for the Blue Devils, but it’s the first time for Jon Scheyer as a head coach. Freshman Cooper Flagg was named the National Player of the Year and the National Rookie of the Year by the National Association of Basketball Coaches on Monday. Scheyer is one of three players to lead a Final Four team in scoring, rebounding, assists and steals. Last year, Duke advanced to the Elite Eight after beating Houston. On Saturday night, the Blue Devils will face the Cougars again, this time in San Antonio. Steve Wiseman, Duke beat writer for the Durham Herald-Sun, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the Blue Devils’ trip to San Antonio and the matchup against the Cougars.

Apr 1, 20255 min

Emily Herring Public Health Veterinarian for the Department of Health and Human Services

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services is working in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services to prevent and eliminate the spread of rabies. Starting this week, Wildlife Services will be distributing the annual oral rabies vaccine for raccoons in Western North Carolina. This oral rabies distribution program typically takes place annually each fall but was delayed in 2024 due to Hurricane Helene. Emily Herring, Public Health Veterinarian for the Department of Health and Human Services, discussed the partnership with Jeff Hamlin.

Apr 1, 20256 min

Sheila Goffe American Kennel Club Vice President of Governement Relations

It was Canines at the Capitol Day at the General Assembly in Raleigh on Tuesday. Many different types of dogs were on hand, including a Great Dane, Boxer, Golden Retriever, Brittany, Bichon Frise, Siberian Husky, and a Bracco Italiano. Dogs ran agility demos and met visitors. Trainers from the Kennel Club were on hand to talk about responsible dog ownership and answer questions. Sheila Goffe of the American Kennel Club joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss Canines at the Capitol Day.

Apr 1, 20255 min